Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia disclose their most impactful colleagues

"It was a lesson in excellence at every meeting"

The spotlight will shine on the Ducati Lenovo 'dream team' in this year's MotoGP season, as the team's two-time champion Francesco Bagnaia teams up with Marc Marquez, who has won six titles with Honda.

Luca Marini is among those who think that the competition will elevate both contenders to unprecedented heights.

"Marini expressed to Crash.net that having Pecco and Marc as teammates will drive them to outdo themselves. He believes that if Aprilia and KTM fail to match Ducati's performance, it might just be those two competing for the win in each race."

Which colleagues did Bagnaia and Marquez gain the most knowledge from previously?

Bagnaia identified Jorge Martin, his anticipated competitor for the championship and the 2024 champion, along with his initial MotoGP colleague Jack Miller, as significant figures.

Bagnaia revealed that his initial moment of learning from a teammate occurred in Moto3, during Jorge Martin's arrival. He mentioned that it was during a wet first test where Martin showcased exceptional speed. By tailing him, Bagnaia absorbed numerous techniques for wet conditions.

"In MotoGP, it's essential to mention Jack Miller, with whom we created an amazing environment both in the pit box and the garage."

Bagnaia teamed up with Miller at Pramac to kick off his debut 2019 MotoGP season. They shared four seasons together, eventually moving up to the official Ducati team for the 2021 and 2022 seasons.

"Bagnaia further commented, "I believe we both played a significant role in shaping the current success of Ducati."

Miller transitioned to KTM following his replacement by Enea Bastianini, and Marquez is set to succeed the Italian starting in 2025.

From his victorious MotoGP debut in 2013 until the conclusion of 2018, Marquez shared a team with Dani Pedrosa at Repsol Honda.

"Without a doubt, the teammate I gained the most knowledge from was Dani Pedrosa," Marquez stated.

"Each session felt like an expert tutorial, especially when you make your debut in MotoGP and have someone like Dani Pedrosa as your team-mate.

"It was incredible to grasp. I gained significant knowledge."

Marquez pointed out the parallels between teaming up with Pedrosa at Repsol Honda and his upcoming venture with Bagnaia at Ducati Lenovo.

"Marquez mentioned, 'It's not exactly the same, but there are some similarities.'"

"I show up in a container where there's a racer who has clinched two global titles, who is incredibly quick, and who has exclusively piloted a Ducati, thus he is highly knowledgeable in resolving any issue."

Marquez stated: "Often, we observe that on Fridays, Pecco is not among the front runners, but then he quickly becomes the quickest on the circuit from one session to the next. Therefore, I aim to glean insights from him, given his extensive expertise riding a Ducati motorcycle."

Bagnaia aims to understand how Marquez excels in challenging circumstances.

"Regarding Marc, it's definitely something novel… However, my perspective and understanding is that when you're dealing with a rider of his caliber – an eight-time world champion who has clinched championships even under challenging conditions, without the top motorcycle – it's truly inspiring for me. It pushes me to strive for competitiveness even when circumstances aren't perfect."

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VR46 clarifies situation amid Pedro Acosta speculation

Uccio Salucci addresses speculations about a possible connection between Acosta and VR46

Uccio Salucci has addressed speculation regarding Pedro Acosta being considered for the VR46 MotoGP team, stating, 'I never had a serious conversation about it within our team'.

In a significant move, Acosta, who made a remarkable debut last year, has inked a long-term agreement to remain with KTM as a factory rider starting from the 2025 season, maintaining his relationship with the Austrian brand that has supported him throughout his Grand Prix journey.

Nonetheless, KTM's ongoing economic troubles and the ambiguous prospects of its MotoGP involvement have sparked rumors that Acosta is seeking an exit strategy for 2026.

Recently, there's been buzzing speculation about a possible switch to the VR46 team on a satellite Ducati for Acosta. This speculation gained more traction after Acosta participated in Valentino Rossi's 100Km of Champions race in Tavullia, which took place earlier this month.

VR46 team leader Salucci has stepped in to dispel these speculations, emphasizing that there hasn't been any significant conversation about it.

"To begin with, I apologize for the narrative concerning KTM, as we maintain a strong rapport with KTM," he stated.

"Our partnership began in 2014 in the Moto3 category, alongside Stefan Pierer, Pit Beirer, and the entire KTM board and leadership team."

"I'm not a fan of this narrative, but sadly, that's how it is."

"Additionally, it's worth mentioning that Acosta is an exceptional cyclist."

"Perhaps he's currently the top talent in MotoGP. However, it's premature to discuss this matter, and frankly, I've never had a serious conversation about Acosta within our team."

In the past few weeks, Acosta has openly stated that the current circumstances with KTM do not impact his short-term career plans in MotoGP.

KTM is facing a financial turmoil, which has forced it to enter a phase of self-administration and undergo a restructuring effort to rescue the firm.

The latest news from Austria reveals that 23 prospective financiers have shown interest in backing the company.

On February 25, a vital gathering is scheduled where lenders will decide on the proposed reorganization strategy that entails receiving 30% repayment of the funds KTM owes them.

Though this is the legal minimum required, it's reported that certain creditors are dissatisfied with this amount.

KTM's current financial obligations have been verified at €2.2 billion.

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New allegations suggest Marc Marquez turned down a sponsorship from Monster

The eight-time world champion reportedly declined a partnership offer with Monster

It is reported that Monster Energy proposed a personal sponsorship agreement to Marc Marquez, a Factory Ducati MotoGP racer, matching the one extended to Francesco Bagnaia. However, Marquez turned down the offer.

The athlete, who has clinched the grand prix world championship eight times, has had a longstanding association with Red Bull, the Austrian energy drink powerhouse, prominently featured on his racing helmet until the conclusion of the previous season.

By joining the factory Ducati team, Marquez terminated his individual agreement with Red Bull as a gesture of respect towards the brand.

The team from Ducati receives sponsorship from Monster Energy, which is clearly visible on their motorcycles, the riders' suits, and the team's apparel.

In 2025, Marquez will wear all these items, but his racing helmet won't display the Monster logo.

As reported by Motorsport.com, Marquez received a proposal from Monster that was the same as the one given to his teammate Bagnaia, but he chose not to accept it.

This action was taken once more as a gesture of respect towards Red Bull, keeping the possibility of rekindling this alliance in the future.

According to Motorsport.com, Ducati anticipated Red Bull would reach out to them regarding 2025, but the conversation happened later than expected.

Marquez has replaced the Red Bull emblems on his helmet with Estrella Galicia decals.

Fascinatingly, as reported by El Periodico, Lenovo, the main sponsor for Ducati, conducted a research last year indicating that signing Marquez instead of Jorge Martin would be more beneficial for the brand because of his international reputation.

Naturally, this didn't significantly influence Ducati's final decision.

Marquez's decision to openly reject the offer of a factory Ducati bike from the Pramac team for the 2025 season ultimately caused the brand to reverse its original plan of advancing Martin.

In the same article by El Periodico, it features a statement from Carlo Merlini, Gresini's director of commercial and marketing, in which he remarks, "One thing is certain, and we witnessed it directly last year.

"Marc provides more than mere success and triumphs. He ensures you gain recognition."

"Marc stands out for his unparalleled visibility and allure. His magnetic charm paves the way for securing sponsorships and media attention."

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Charges of lacking leadership at Honda amid grim forecasts

"Honda seems to be not taking concrete actions…"

The recent episode of the Crash MotoGP podcast delved into Honda's performance in 2025.

Honda has named Romano Albesiano as their new technical director, with Aleix Espargaro and Takaaki Nakagami serving as their test riders.

Luca Marini and Joan Mir, who both faced significant challenges in 2024, will once again team up at the factory, with LCR welcoming Johann Zarco and newcomer Somkiat Chantra to their ranks.

However, the issues with the manufacturer exist on a more significant scale, according to our specialists.

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"Lewis Duncan mentioned on our podcast that Honda appears to be missing a central leadership figure, similar to the role Max Bartolini plays at Yamaha."

They possess a tenacious advocate in Alberto Puig who stands up for the rider and the circumstances, yet lack an individual capable of bringing the riders together.

"Joan Mir is constantly unhappy. What prompted him to ink a fresh deal? His rationale is that he didn't wish to conclude things on such a term. Yet, if he finds no joy in it and maintains a pessimistic attitude throughout…

Honda lacks a definitive leader. Johann Zarco might assume that position, as he was more articulate than their other riders, showed greater calmness, and was undeniably more successful in competitions.

Determining Honda's future direction and assessing Romano Albesiano's potential influence is challenging. He inherits a foundational setup that isn't his creation, necessitating a period of adjustment to rework it.

"Honda doesn't appear to be making significant progress this year. While there were minor indications of improvement towards last year's end, they seemed to benefit only Zarco."

"In my opinion, achieving consistent point finishes for Honda would signify success. However, reaching Yamaha's potential level could prove to be challenging."

Honda discussed critical improvement areas

Peter McLaren mentioned, "To what extent will Albesiano and Aleix impact the motorcycle's development?

Attracting talent is one aspect; Honda has indeed recruited numerous engineers and collaborates with Kalex, yet this move hasn't significantly altered the bike's success.

Honda's initial focus should be on avoiding regression, similar to the setbacks experienced in the previous year. Misguided testing strategies severely impacted the early part of their last season.

"If they are able, to at the very least, resume from the point they stopped…"

"Veteran cyclists Zarco and Marini are expected to provide additional support due to their extensive biking experience."

"Marc Marquez was queried about the distinctions between being a factory rider for Ducati and Honda."

"He mentioned 'communication'. Gigi Dall'Igna is the one who connects everything at Ducati."

"Honda must focus on improving in these specific domains."

The key factor is the base they establish following their trials. Aleix has undergone testing this year, having participated in several sessions the previous year.

"After the races in Buriram and Sepang, we'll understand the magnitude of progress. Is a significant advancement on the horizon?"

"Perhaps by examining the bike and suggesting 'implement it in this manner', Albesiano could potentially help them shave off a few tenths of a second per lap. It’s within the realm of possibility."

Achieving the highest Honda position at 12th in the championship standings would be considered a positive outcome. Last year, Zarco finished in 17th place.

"In MotoGP, it's possible to witness singular, unexpected outcomes, as demonstrated by Alex Rins's performance at COTA."

"However, they must realistically adopt a gradual approach. Yet, the initial move should involve not regressing…"

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Radiant Jack Miller presents his unique Yamaha

Jack Miller reveals his latest acquisition in Australia

Jack Miller has unveiled his latest Yamaha model.

However, the bike he's set to mount for the 2025 season isn't the MotoGP model.

Rather, it's a motocross motorcycle embellished with the flag of Australia.

Check out this Instagram post shared by Jack Miller (@jackmilleraus)

The Yamaha 250cc four-stroke, enhanced with advanced technology accessories, showcases the 'Thriller Motorsport' branding along with the 'CAT' sponsor logo.

Miller is well-known for incorporating motocross training in Australia as part of his MotoGP preparation, and he now possesses a motorcycle that complements his professional racing activities.

Miller is set to transition to the newly-formed Pramac Yamaha team for this season, leaving KTM behind.

Pramac has transitioned from a partnership with Ducati to now aligning with Yamaha, enhancing the capabilities of the Japanese bike maker.

Miller is set to collaborate with Miguel Oliveira, which implies that Pramac's lineup boasts riders with knowledge of riding the Ducati, KTM, Aprilia, and Honda motorcycles.

However, it has been cautioned to Miller that he may need to adjust more than Oliveira.

"From my perspective, Miguel’s approach to riding is well-matched with the M1. On the other hand, Jack will need to make some adjustments to his approach," stated Massimo Meregalli of Yamaha.

However, Pramac offers a new chance for the seasoned Miller following a challenging two-year stint with KTM.

He is set to participate starting this Friday during the preliminary trials.

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Who are the participants in today's 2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown trial?

Complete rundown of competitors taking part in the Shakedown trial

The holiday recess concludes this Friday, marking the commencement of the 2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown test.

A significant three-day event in Malaysia takes place from Friday, January 31, to Sunday, February 2.

Not all MotoGP competitors will participate in the initial shakedown trial. Instead, they are scheduled to reconvene for the official Sepang trials happening from February 5th to 7th.

Who are the MotoGP participants in the Sepang Shakedown test?

The Sepang Shakedown test mainly involves the test riders from each team, tasked with putting the motorcycles through their paces after a period of dormancy.

Their job is to resolve problems with the 2025 equipment, prior to the motorcycles being distributed to the racing athletes.

Nonetheless, the regulations on concessions will permit Honda and Yamaha to have additional personnel present at the Shakedown.

Honda and Yamaha have been granted the authority to utilize their unrestricted testing days, thereby employing their complete roster of racing riders.

Fabio Quartararo, Jack Miller, Luca Marini, and their colleagues will participate in the Shakedown event accordingly.

Newcomers are permitted to participate in the Shakedown as well.

In the 2025 MotoGP season, three newcomers will make their debut during the Shakedown event, including Ai Ogura racing for Trackhouse, Fermin Aldeguer with Gresini, and Somkiat Chantra joining the LCR Honda team.

Complete roster of participants for the 2025 Sepang Shakedown test featuring Ducati.

Michele Pirro (development rider)

Fermin Aldeguer (Gresini Team)

KTM

Dani Pedrosa (development rider)

Pol Espargaro (development rider)

Aprilia

Lorenzo Savadori (development rider)

Ai Ogura (Trackhouse)

Yamaha Corporation

Fabio Quartararo (official team member)

Alex Rins (official team rider)

Jack Miller (Pramac Racing)

Miguel Oliveira (Pramac Team)

Andrea Dovizioso (development rider)

Augusto Fernandez (development rider)

Honda Motor Company

Luca Marini (official team rider)

Joan Mir (official team rider)

Johann Zarco (LCR Team)

Somkiat Chantra (Team LCR)

Aleix Espargaro (trial rider)

Takaaki Nakagami (trial rider)

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Yamaha recruits Andrea Dovizioso for Shakedown trial, sparking speculation about V4

Is the V4 making its debut in Sepang?

Andrea Dovizioso is set to return to the MotoGP circuit, participating in the Sepang Shakedown test happening this week.

Yamaha has enlisted him to join their team as a test rider.

Under the regulations regarding concessions, Yamaha and Honda have the permission to include their four competing riders alongside their test riders during the Shakedown.

The remaining three factories are only allowing their test riders and novice racers to use the facilities, pending the official Sepang test scheduled for next week.

Dovizioso's return to riding a Yamaha followed his stint as a test rider for their M1 during the latter part of the previous season, stepping in for the injured Cal Crutchlow.

Fascinatingly, his involvement in the Shakedown raises speculation on whether Yamaha could introduce their V4 engine.

Yamaha continues to utilize a four-cylinder inline engine, though they have acknowledged the development of a V4 engine, aligning with the approach of their competitors.

The Shakedown trial is not broadcast and is conducted in private, potentially giving Yamaha the chance to discreetly evaluate the new engine.

Yamaha team racer Alex Rins had earlier expressed their intention to conduct trials of the V4, featuring Dovizioso as the rider, in December.

However, Rins mentioned that the strategy was unsuccessful due to the engine not being prepared.

This weekend's trial run will see Dovizioso teaming up with test pilot Augusto Fernandez, official racers Rins and Fabio Quartararo, along with Pramac's duo, Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira, as the manufacturer eyes another opportunity to evaluate the V4.

Yamaha anticipates that their debut with a V4 engine in racing competitions will not happen before the second half of 2025, at the soonest.

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Marc Marquez: On Technology – "Ultimately, the final choice rests with you."

Francesco Bagnaia believes, "It's a 70% human effort and 30% technological contribution."

The latest unveiling of the Ducati MotoGP team, featuring racers Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, showcased artificial intelligence technology, thanks to the main sponsor, Lenovo.

Ducati's current supremacy in MotoGP is also credited to its advanced application of technology, specifically in the areas of data analytics and simulation programs.

Marquez's shift from having no wins in his last two seasons with Repsol Honda to securing three victories on a previous year's Gresini Ducati last year highlighted the crucial role of equipment.

The riders concurred that the combination of personal expertise and technological proficiency is what renders MotoGP fascinating, yet they emphasize that it is ultimately the human element that 'tips the scales'.

"Technology plays a crucial role, undoubtedly. It's a significant aid for people. However, ultimately, it's humans who make the decisions," stated the six-time MotoGP champion, Marquez.

"The Ducati Lenovo team boasts exceptionally advanced technology, and their bikes are equipped with similarly high-tech features. However, it's crucial to remember that at the core, it's the human riders who bring it all

"Thus, it provides significant assistance, yet the final choice remains entirely up to you."

Two-time champion and current second-place holder Bagnaia stated, “I believe it's 70% down to human effort and 30% due to technology.

"Indeed, the necessity for technology is undeniable, and in this regard, Lenovo plays a significant role by contributing greatly to technological advancements, particularly in enhancing data capabilities."

"However, the individuals responsible for securing the outcomes and earning the points are the dedicated humans and engineers tirelessly working throughout the race weekend."

"As riders, we dedicate ourselves daily to excelling in our sport, aiming to secure our achievements on the racecourse."

"Therefore, it's a supplementary role and I believe humans remain a crucial component of it, which is the primary and most intriguing aspect of our profession."

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2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown Test: Your Guide to Today's Event

Everything you need to know about today's 2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown Test

Here's your guide to keeping up with the 2025 Sepang Shakedown test from January 31 to February 2. Below, you'll find the schedule for the start times of the Sepang Shakedown test.

The fresh season kicks off with the Shakedown event in Sepang, Malaysia.

Each manufacturing plant will dispatch racers to the circuit for a three-day period to carry out initial trials of their latest motorcycles.

During the Shakedown, only test riders and newcomers from Ducati, Aprilia, and KTM are permitted to participate.

However, because of the regulations regarding concessions, both Honda and Yamaha are also permitted to include their MotoGP competitors in the competition.

This indicates that Aleix Espargaro, Honda's recent addition as a test rider, will team up with Luca Marini, Joan Mir, and the pair from LCR.

Yamaha's official duo, Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins, will team up with Pramac's racers, alongside test pilots Augusto Fernandez and Andrea Dovizioso.

Tracking the 2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown test from any location

The Sepang Shakedown test won't be broadcasted. There's no available live stream to catch the events as they happen.

However, there's no need for concern, as Crash.net will supply all the necessary updates and details you require.

We will be stationed at the Sepang paddock, providing you with real-time updates for each lap, along with live timing for every lap.

We'll keep you informed on the newest technology advancements and feature conversations with the riders.

Stay updated on MotoGP X by following the Crash.net account for photos, lap times, and rider opinions.

2025 Sepang Shakedown test kickoff schedule

Friday, January 31 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time / 2 a.m. to 10 a.m. UK

Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time / 2 a.m. to 10 a

Sunday, February, from 10 am to 6 pm local time / 2 am to 10 am UK time

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Ducati unveils updated fairing at Sepang MotoGP Shakedown trial

Michele Pirro has been testing the Ducati Desmosedici GP25 equipped with a newly designed fairing at the Sepang circuit.

Ducati seems to have introduced a new fairing during the MotoGP Shakedown test at Sepang this weekend.

Michele Pirro has been the sole rider representing the Italian manufacturer on the track in Malaysia this weekend, testing their newest machinery. Meanwhile, rookie Fermin Aldeguer has participated in the test as well, but he is using the previous year's GP24 model, which he will be riding in the 2025 season.

This weekend at Sepang, Pirro has been testing various motorcycles, some of which featured a carbon fairing that had not been painted.

A picture shared on MotoGP's social media accounts on Friday, January 31, following the first day of the Shakedown, features Pirro riding one of these bikes without any branding.

Examining the front of the fairing, it's evident that changes have been made to the lower part of the front wing compared to the previous season. The outer portion now appears to be slimmer and features a more pronounced curve.

The image shared by the official MotoGP social media platforms, because of the angle at which it was captured, partially conceals a significant portion of the motorcycle's side fairing, leaving it in the shadows.

Adjusting the white balance and brightness of the picture uncovers more details in the shaded region.

Initially, it seems that the sidepod wings have been modified, although the precise details are unclear because of the angle at which the photograph was captured. The lower section of the wing seems to have been raised compared to earlier versions of Ducati’s MotoGP fairing. Furthermore, the left sidepod wing seems to have a curved exterior instead of a flat one.

Although these modifications might offer their own aerodynamic benefits, the clearest reason for them is found just beneath the lower edge of the sidepod wing, where a significantly taller downwash duct is now positioned.

The duct's design seems to resemble the one Ducati brought out during the Misano test last year. This updated fairing was used by both Jorge Martin and Enea Bastianini for the rest of the 2024 season, though Francesco Bagnaia did not adopt it. Nevertheless, the duct now looks broader and significantly higher.

The picture reveals that the top section of the duct is now nearly aligned with the top of the mudguard, right at the point where it connects with the fork leg. This is a contrast to last season when the highest part of the duct used by Bastianini and Martin was positioned considerably lower, as depicted in the subsequent photo.

Located behind the duct is the raised ground effect section that made its debut last year. The image doesn't provide enough detail to confidently determine any changes made to that part of the fairing for 2025, if changes were made at all.

When observing the rear section of the motorcycle, although the photograph doesn't offer a clear perspective, there seems to be another set of 'stegosaurus' wings made of carbon black. These are located, from a visual standpoint, just behind Pirro's arm. They look akin to the wings attached to the bike's tail, but they are evidently placed further forward and linked by a connector between the two parts.

From an ergonomic perspective, these should be placed behind the seat to avoid limiting the rider's movement. However, the exact location is unclear from the photo.

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TNT Sports announces 2025 MotoGP commentary crew

Team of six set for Thailand MotoGP coverage confirmed

TNT Sports has announced its broadcast crew for the 2025 MotoGP season.

Host Suzi Perry has posted a picture of the team set to report on the Thailand MotoGP season opener.

Enjoyed spending the winter season in a state of dormancy. Preparations for the #Motogp @motogpontnt are moving forward, with travel plans, gatherings, brainstorming, and more all sorted. Plus, we're all set to kick things off in Thailand ♥️ Truly surrounded by the best people 😆 pic.twitter.com/xXV4VAQyx5— Suzi Perry (@suziperry) January 29, 2025

Perry, the seasoned television host, will once more be the focal point of TNT Sports' broadcasts.

Gavin Emmett is set to offer analysis during MotoGP events and engage in interviews with riders, contributing to the channel's comprehensive coverage.

Former racers Michael Laverty, Neil Hodgson, and Sylvain Guintoli offer insightful viewpoints and will take on dual roles as analysts and commentators.

Natalie Quirk is a journalist stationed within the racing circuit, often the first to interview leading cyclists following a race.

Steve Day is set to resume his role as a commentator in 2025 as well.

TNT Sports has unveiled modifications for the upcoming season that will affect both the World Superbike Championship and the British Superbike Championship.

The network known for airing WSBK and BSB, Eurosport, is set to cease operations.

Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), the parent organization of both networks, has announced that it will integrate it into TNT Sports.

This implies that MotoGP, World Superbike Championship, and British Superbike Championship will all now be available under one roof.

The alteration will take place starting February 28, 2025.

The MotoGP championship kicks off in Thailand from February 28 to March 2.

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For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he reported on a variety of sports, including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1.

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Honda's Revamped Appearance for 2025: More Than a Mere Facelift in MotoGP

As the 2025 season approaches, Honda is not just changing its colors; it's embarking on a much-needed renewal in MotoGP.

The positive aspect for Honda as they approach the 2025 MotoGP season is that their situation couldn't possibly deteriorate further.

In the past five years, the team has faced a significant decline in performance, enduring three seasons without a single victory since 2020, including the most recent one. During this period, they also lost their long-standing title sponsor, Repsol, and let go of Marc Marquez, one of the greatest talents of this era, who moved to Ducati.

Honda's decline is a story that many are familiar with. For years, the challenging RC213V bikes were made to look better than they were by the exceptional skills of six-time MotoGP champion Marc Marquez. However, in 2020, when Marquez was sidelined for the entire season due to an injury, the inadequacies of the bikes were starkly revealed. This led to a shift in their design strategy, which unfortunately exacerbated the situation. By the end of 2023, Marquez decided to part ways, having endured significant physical strain to recover his fitness, only to find that Honda Racing Corporation did not reciprocate his efforts with sufficient improvements.

Initially, there were minimal expectations for the 2024 season. However, the reality turned out to be much more disappointing than anticipated.

At the beginning of 2024, Honda chose an incorrect path in its development strategy, which resulted in the company struggling to find the correct course of action. Although there were a few indications of progress as the season drew to a close, with Johann Zarco achieving Honda's top finish of eighth place in the wet conditions of the Thailand Grand Prix, the overall statistics by the end of the year were disappointing.

For the fourth consecutive year, Honda ended the constructors' championship at the bottom, accumulating only 75 points. This was 110 points less than its total in 2023, a year when they unexpectedly secured a win with Alex Rins at the Circuit of the Americas. Throughout the previous year, HRC never managed to score in double digits in any single round.

Johann Zarco was the highest-ranked rider in the standings, holding 17th place with 55 points. Meanwhile, factory team riders Joan Mir and Luca Marini were at the bottom among full-time competitors, accumulating just 35 points together. Marini, who was selected to replace Marquez from a limited selection of candidates, didn’t earn any points until the ninth race at the German Grand Prix, and even then, it was due to a penalty imposed on a competitor ahead of him.

Considering Mir's average of 1.05 points per round and Marini's 0.7 points per round, it's understandable why Repsol chose to conclude a partnership that has been thriving since 1995.

As 2025 approaches, Honda finds itself in a challenging situation.

Challenging periods require resilience, and Honda has evidently recognized that its past strategies have been ineffective. A major factor in the decline of Japanese manufacturers in MotoGP compared to their European competitors is rooted in cultural differences. European companies tend to adopt a more direct, experimental approach, while Japanese brands are more meticulous, ensuring a development is successful before it is tested on the track.

Certainly, the ultimate test to determine if a development is effective is to put it through a race. Yamaha is in a position to do this in 2024 thanks to appointing Max Bartolini, a former Ducati engineer, as their technical director. Following a similar strategy, Honda has decided to hire a prominent European engineer to lead their development efforts in 2025.

Honda initially considered former KTM employee Fabiano Sterlacchini as a potential candidate. However, they ultimately decided to hire Romano Albesiano, who was serving as the technical director at Aprilia. Albesiano, an Italian, played a key role in transforming the RS-GP from being a subject of ridicule into a competitive bike capable of attracting the reigning world champion, Jorge Martin, for the current season.

Albesiano's challenge at Honda mirrors the one he encountered at Aprilia in 2015, though this time he has the extensive resources of the powerful Honda Racing Corporation at his disposal. Despite enduring a lengthy period of difficulties, this is the same team that clinched six championships in seven years with Marquez from 2013 to 2019; secured a title with Casey Stoner in 2011; triumphed over Valentino Rossi and Yamaha in 2006 with Nicky Hayden; and dominated the initial two years of the modern era with Rossi in 2002 and 2003.

Honda still knows how to secure victories. Therefore, the optimistic statements made during Honda's 2025 launch event, where they revealed their revamped livery and announced Castrol as their title sponsor, are quite comprehensible.

Luca Marini expressed his optimism about the project's future to Crash.net, attributing it to the influx of new engineers, including Romano and several other talented individuals on the team. He is confident that Honda will progress significantly by 2025.

"This represents a significant shift that Honda has not experienced before. Consequently, we're beginning to see transformations. I mentioned this last year, but the changes are even more apparent this winter. Romano just began his involvement with this project in January, so it will require some time to truly incorporate his ideas and influence. However, the exchange of insights and feedback from other manufacturers, particularly the Italian ones, will fundamentally alter the approach. Although it will take time, everyone is extremely optimistic and highly motivated."

Fellow racer Joan Mir expressed a similar sentiment, stating, "I've been discussing with [crew chief] Santi [Hernandez] regarding the latest upgrades we're getting right now. It seems he's feeling quite positive, which in turn makes me feel happy and hopeful too."

"I don't anticipate immediately regaining the lead, but we have options to explore: we can test various engines and chassis. If these adjustments bring us closer to what we've been aiming for over a long period, it will be a positive step forward for us."

Albesiano did not play a role in designing the 2025 motorcycle, which has already been tested at the Sepang track before the season starts. He will require time to analyze all aspects and develop a version reflecting his vision. However, he will benefit from certain allowances to assist in this endeavor.

According to Marini, Honda is likely to make substantial progress in the latter part of the year. Achieving this won't be simple due to the intense competition, but Honda possesses all the necessary resources to succeed.

This also involves a Joan Mir who appears to be quite distinct.

Since the unexpected exit of Suzuki from MotoGP, the 2020 world champion has faced challenges after moving to Honda in 2023. His debut season on the RC213V was marred by injuries, resulting in just 26 points and a highest finish of fifth place at the Indian Grand Prix. This result was primarily due to the advantage provided by a more durable rear tyre carcass that suited the Honda.

During the 2024 season, Mir seemed to find himself more often in the gravel than riding his RC213V. Over the course of the year, he experienced 17 crashes and failed to complete 10 of the 20 grand prix races. His top performance for the year was securing 11th place at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

Throughout various points during his time with Honda, Mir has considered leaving MotoGP. However, his apprehension about not succeeding has prevented him from taking that step. He has now secured a new two-year contract with HRC starting in 2025.

Following the test in Barcelona, Mir expressed frustration over what he perceived as Honda's failure to provide new components. He frequently voiced his concerns, becoming one of the most vocal figures within the team. While his reaction is reasonable, given his status as a MotoGP champion, there is an expectation for him to take on a leadership role for the brand and make the most of the resources available to him, similar to Fabio Quartararo's approach at Yamaha.

In response to a question from Crash about how he can become a better leader in 2025 and improve his performance, irrespective of the bike's performance compared to his expectations, Mir provided an honest and straightforward reply.

"It's quite challenging," he started, "when you've had strong performances in the past and have consistently been a key competitor in the world championship, to suddenly become a rider who is no longer considered significant. It's an adjustment you have to manage."

"You must come to terms with it. Initially, it was harder for me to come to grips with the situation. However, I now understand what needs to be done to change things around. No one should doubt my confidence in the project because I remain here, putting in as much effort as I can."

"At home, I find it very helpful to train as intensely as possible and ensure I am in peak physical condition. I aim to eliminate any doubts from my mind about whether I could have done more. This approach serves as my form of therapy. Despite everything, I am eager to begin. I am determined to change the current situation, start anew, and grasp what we will explore in the test. I am curious about the suggestions the new team members at Honda have for us and their innovative ideas. More importantly, I am keen to see how Honda responds after all our efforts."

Before the new season kicks off, Honda has already scored a victory with its striking new livery, which stands out as the best among its competitors. This fresh look symbolizes a brand ready to evolve. The previous Repsol design felt uninspired, as though the team was clinging to its successes of the past, with Marquez's legacy still looming large—and the team's performance on the track reflected that stagnation.

The tangible signs of this new phase are beginning to emerge. With Albesiano leading the technical overhaul, the factory riders, who were in dire need of a boost, are starting to feel more assured. The enhanced test team, which includes Aleix Espargaro, promises to speed up development, something the race riders have long desired. Additionally, Takaaki Nakagami's fresh role in testing aims to improve communication between the team's European and Japanese divisions.

Although it may be difficult to predict that Honda will contend for podium finishes in the final part of the season, as Yamaha potentially might, considering their current trajectories, there is indeed a valid cause for optimism at HRC. It appears that there is now a glimmer of hope emerging from what has been a very challenging period.

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